• Episode #39 Jason Fullmer AOTC
    Jan 12 2026

    The conversation delves into the journey of Chief Jason Fullmer, his role in the American Fire Service, and the formation of Ambassadors of the Craft (AOTC). It explores the expansion and collaboration of AOTC, its impact on the fire service, and the evolution of March Mayhem, shedding light on future plans and community engagement. The conversation covers topics such as March Mayhem and AOTC, house fire operations and department structure, Chief Fullmer's journey into the fire service, favorite fire service tradition, and changing the fire service. Key takeaways include the importance of cultivating training and the need to remove toxicity from the fire service culture.

    Takeaways

    • Passion for the Craft
    • Comprehensive Training
    • Community Engagement Cultivate Training
    • Toxicity Removal

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Impact on the American Fire Service
    • 28:20 Evolution of March Mayhem and Future Plans
    • 01:16:57 Favorite Fire Service Tradition and Changing the Fire Service
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    1 hr and 20 mins
  • Episode #38 Colin Ward "This Job is a lot more fun when you are good at it"
    Dec 29 2025

    The conversation begins with an introduction to Colin Ward, highlighting his extensive experience and passion for training in the American Fire Service. It then delves into his early career and the transition to truck work, discussing the challenges in fire service training and the importance of creating realistic training environments. The conversation covers the importance of looking up, training and leadership goals, the impact of effective training, the significance of training compliments, the transition to effective training, the joy of being ready, the role of training captains, the impact of training on fire performance, operational procedures and staffing, the importance of aggressive firefighting, the role of ambulances in firefighting, the fun of not sucking at the job, the tradition of bumper time, and creating realistic training environments.

    Takeaways

    • Passion for realistic training environments
    • Challenges in fire service training Importance of effective training
    • The joy of being ready

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Introduction to Colin Ward
    • 15:00 Challenges in Fire Service Training
    • 28:39 Realistic Training Environments
    • 34:46 The Importance of Looking Up
    • 40:03 The Impact of Training on Fire Performance
    • 52:57 The Tradition of Bumper Time
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Episode #37 Mickey Farrell "The Love Of The Game!"
    Dec 15 2025

    In this engaging conversation, Steve-O sits down with Mickey Farrell, a seasoned firefighter and author, to discuss the culture of the American Fire Service. Mickey shares his journey as a third-generation firefighter, the importance of family in the fire service, and the challenges faced by new recruits. They explore the evolution of training, the significance of teamwork, and the need for humility in leadership. Mickey emphasizes the importance of understanding the 'why' behind firefighting tactics and the impact of social media on the fire service community. The discussion culminates in a reflection on the love of the job and the values that bind firefighters together. In this conversation, Mickey and Steve-O delve into the complexities of firefighting, discussing the emotional and tactical aspects of the job. They explore the importance of community, the challenges of maintaining morale, and the significance of tradition and culture in the fire service. Mickey emphasizes the need for discipline and understanding of firefighting tactics, while also highlighting the personal connections that make the job rewarding. The discussion culminates in a call for a greater focus on cultural legacy within fire academies to better prepare new firefighters for the challenges they will face.

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    1 hr and 48 mins
  • Episode #34 Talking ICS with AC Tige Harmon
    Nov 17 2025

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    In this conversation, Chief Tige Harmon discusses his extensive experience in the fire service, focusing on the importance of the Incident Command System (ICS) and the need for a new, simplified approach to improve communication and efficiency. He emphasizes the empowerment of company officers, the significance of mentorship, and the necessity of clear radio communication during emergencies. The discussion also touches on the traditions of the fire service, particularly the role of the kitchen table in fostering camaraderie and problem-solving. Chief Harmon advocates for a culture of continuous learning and collaboration among firefighters to enhance the overall effectiveness of the fire service.

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    55 mins
  • Episode #35 "we can do better" TCM with Chief Chris Gray
    Dec 1 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Battalion Chief Chris Gray discusses his extensive experience in the fire service and the establishment of Truck Company Manifesto, a company dedicated to enhancing truck company operations and training. He shares insights on the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of realistic training props, and the revival of traditional firefighting techniques such as forcible entry and ground ladder operations. Chris emphasizes the need for modern training methods, especially in the context of evolving vehicle technologies like electric vehicles (EVs), and the significance of understanding fire dynamics to improve firefighting effectiveness. He also touches on the operational strategies of his department and the importance of collaboration and continuous learning in the fire service. In this conversation, Chris and Steve-O delve into the traditions and changes within the firefighting community, emphasizing the importance of aggressive interior firefighting, adequate staffing, and the need for camaraderie and support among firefighters. They share personal experiences and insights on how to improve training and community involvement, highlighting the significance of maintaining a strong bond within the fire service.

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    1 hr and 36 mins
  • Season 2 episode 22 Mayday Firefighter Kenny Roman
    Jun 13 2025

    In this episode, we interviews Kenny Roman, a firefighter paramedic with 18 years of experience. We discuss a May Day incident that Kenny was involved in, detailing the challenges faced during the operation, the critical moment of getting lost, and the decision to call a Mayday. Kenny shares valuable lessons learned from the experience, the importance of training, and how martial arts has influenced his approach to firefighting. The conversation also touches on the traditions within the fire service and the need for systemic changes to better address mental health and emergency responses.

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    1 hr and 21 mins
  • Season 2 episode 29 Empowering the Next Generation of Firefighters
    Sep 8 2025



    In this conversation, Battalion Chief Joe Cvach discusses the critical role of education and continuous learning in the fire service. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to changes in firefighting tactics, engaging both new recruits and senior personnel in training, and fostering a culture of mentorship and community service. Chief Cvach shares insights on real-time training, the significance of conferences, and the necessity of understanding community needs to enhance overall department performance. In this conversation, Steve-O and Joe Cvach discuss the importance of embracing failure as a learning opportunity in the fire service, adapting to modern challenges, and effectively managing mass casualty incidents. They emphasize the need for clear communication, regionalized training, and the significance of station pride in fostering a strong community within the fire service. Joe shares his experiences and insights from his extensive career, highlighting the evolution of firefighting tactics and the importance of continuous learning.



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    1 hr and 47 mins
  • Season 2 episode 25. The Work Out Guy! Nate Harpster
    Jul 25 2025

    In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of firefighting, exploring the cultural differences that shape how this vital service is performed across various regions. Join us as we sit down with Nate Harpster, a seasoned firefighter from Phoenix, who shares his insights on the contrasting approaches to fitness, tactics, and departmental culture between the East and West coasts. Discover how regional traditions and environmental factors influence firefighting strategies, and learn about the unique challenges and innovations that define this profession.

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    1 hr and 18 mins